Weekend Winterizing Challenge: Caulking Windows vs. Replacing Them

Deck

Welcome to the second installment in our eight-week winterizing challenge. Last week we talked about a quick fix for drafty windows---insulating them with a quick-stick plastic during the winter.
My challenge partner, Susanna, is a homeowner, however, and she thinks more long-term about how to handle less-than-ideal windows.
First, she talks frankly about replacing them. The price tag for new windows in her first home---$10,000---made my stomach lurch. But in her current residence, she replaced just one large picture window in her living room, and for $700, it makes quite a bit of sense: She qualifies for a tax credit on 30 percent of the cost because it meets federal energy-efficiency guidelines, and, as she points out, it's an excellent investment for her home.
But, it can be a lot more affordable to simply caulk drafty windows. First, she used a tip from Condo Blues to place a candle near her windows to see where the draft was coming in.
For this cheapster, the cost of caulk is a lot more attractive. The caulk and gun cost around $20 (though the cost goes up for higher-quality guns). Susanna also used an expanding foam sealant to curb the incoming air, which costs around $9.
Time commitment: Both of Susanna's projects, caulking and insulating, took her around four hours---including shopping for all the necessary supplies.

Slideshows

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Johnson & Wales students, all baking and pastry arts majors, competed in the Gingerbread Takeover from December 6–8. Final judging took place on Thursday in the lobby of the Sheraton Downtown Denver hotel. All photos by Sarah Boyum

Photo of the Week

The American Society of Interior Designers' (ASID) Colorado Chapter decorated the Governor's Residence for the holidays. Holiday tours, free and open to the public, will take place December 8-11 and December 15-18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All photos by Sarah Boyum